Is the Vezel a four-wheel drive?
3 Answers
The Vezel is not a four-wheel drive; currently, all models adopt a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Common automobile drive configurations include front-engine front-wheel drive, front-engine rear-wheel drive, mid-engine rear-wheel drive, mid-engine four-wheel drive, rear-engine four-wheel drive, and rear-engine rear-wheel drive. Front-engine front-wheel drive is a prevalent configuration, especially in family cars, as it minimizes the space occupied by the powertrain and enhances driving comfort. The Vezel is a compact SUV under GAC Honda, featuring a MacPherson independent front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The vehicle measures 4294mm in length, 1772mm in width, and 1605mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2610mm.
I've driven quite a few SUVs, including different versions of the Honda HR-V. Yes, the Honda HR-V does offer all-wheel drive models, but not all variants come with it—it depends on the specific configuration and region. In the standard versions, most are front-wheel drive for better fuel efficiency and urban convenience. However, you can opt for the real-time all-wheel-drive system, especially in higher trims or sport editions, which costs a few thousand dollars more. Honda's AWD technology is quite smart—it primarily operates as front-wheel drive during normal driving but automatically distributes power to the rear wheels when it detects slippage or slippery road conditions, enhancing stability. I once drove the AWD version on a snowy mountain road in winter, and it felt reassuringly stable. That said, if you're purely commuting in the city, the front-wheel-drive version is sufficient and more fuel-efficient, saving about half a liter per 100 kilometers on average. When buying, I recommend test-driving both drivetrain options to feel the difference. Overall, the HR-V offers great value for money, with the AWD version being ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
I just bought a Vezel last month and only found out about the optional features after a long chat with the salesperson. To be honest, the Vezel offers an optional four-wheel drive (4WD), but most models sold are front-wheel drive (FWD), and the entry-level trim usually only comes with FWD. As a young person, I opted for FWD because of budget constraints—I mainly drive in the city for commuting, and 4WD is unnecessary and more expensive. Insurance costs a few hundred more annually, and maintenance is a bit more complicated. During the test drive of the 4WD version, the acceleration felt stronger, and cornering was more stable, but since I don’t go on many road trips, it really wasn’t worth it. A friend’s 4WD Vezel handled muddy roads easily during a camping trip in the countryside. In terms of pricing, the base model costs around 160,000 RMB, and adding the 4WD system would cost over 10,000 RMB more. Based on my personal experience, FWD is more than sufficient for 90% of urban commuting scenarios—it’s economical, practical, and hassle-free.
